By Roger Jimenez
Have you heard of the new up and coming town, The Packing District? Tucked away near the intersection of John Young Parkway and Princeton Street, this brand new neighborhood, brought about by Dr. Phillips and Dr. Phillips Charities, invites everyone to explore its unique blend of history, culture, and innovation. Read ahead as we uncover for you the local businesses, exciting experiences, and upcoming projects within this dynamic corner of the city.
Where is it?
Neighbors to the lively College Park, the Packing District finds its home near the bustling intersection of John Young Parkway and Princeton Street. This vibrant district is surrounded by several neighboring cities, with Winter Park lying to the northeast, Ocoee to the northwest, and Kissimmee to the south.
What is it?
The Packing District, spanning 202 acres at the intersection of Princeton Street and Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando, is a transformative endeavor that not only preserves but revitalizes a pivotal aspect of our community's heritage. By repurposing historic buildings and seamlessly integrating them with modern amenities, this project aims to provide a much-needed hub for both residential and commercial endeavors.
Central to this vision is the creation of a bold urban landscape, where dedicated public spaces, urban trails, and a 100-acre public park, converge to foster health, wellness, education, arts, and sustainability initiatives. Since preparations started back in 2018, the project has been guided by a comprehensive four-phase master plan, ensuring its evolution over the next 10-15 years.
Led by Dr. Phillips Charities, the development of the Packing District represents an homage to its storied past and an opportunity to shape the future of our community, city, and region. With a focus on promoting community wellness through initiatives like the development of a regional park and a network of interconnected plazas, the Packing District is poised to become an exhilarating new community hub, weaving together neighborhoods while honoring its legacy.
Image Credit: The Packing District
The project will include:
-
202 acres of land within the City of Orlando
-
Conversion of 97 acres of industrial/commercial land into mixed-use and residential areas
-
A dedicated 105-acre regional park, featuring a 40-acre urban farm
-
Projected development of 3,500 residential units
-
Over 1 million square feet of projected retail and office space
History
Announced in 2018, the $700 million project aimed to breathe new life into historic buildings while integrating them with modern residential and retail spaces. The city pledged to enhance the area's walkability and bike-friendliness through street redesigns.
Dr. Phillips, a pioneering citrus producer, established one of his premier packing houses on the site along Orange Blossom Trail near College Park, laying the foundation for Orlando's early economic landscape. The site, adorned with structures crafted from Dr. Phillips bricks, served both his business ventures and his philanthropic endeavors, becoming a cornerstone of the community.
The genesis of the Packing District traces back nearly a century, rooted in Dr. Phillips' vision of sharing citrus with the world while enriching his community. Over time, his legacy evolved through family stewardship and the establishment of Dr. Phillips Charities in 1953, dedicated to upholding his charitable mission.
Dr. Phillips Charities spearheads the development of the Packing District, leveraging its expertise in master planning. Positioned adjacent to the established College Park neighborhood, the 202-acre site holds significant historical and commercial value, poised to thrive in Orlando's burgeoning market.
Once completed, the Packing District is projected to create 1,322 jobs and contribute $95 million annually in gross taxes, marking a pivotal moment in the city's evolution.
Image Credit: The Packing District
Residences
Since the announcement of the ambitious project six years ago, numerous residential and retail developments have sprung to life or begun construction. Below, we highlight those completed projects:
The Brix
Right near the new Orlando Tennis Centre and YMCA Family Center, The Brix at The Packing District offers luxury living in three-story townhomes. Developed by Toll Brothers, the community boasts 135 townhomes featuring amenities like a dog park and green spaces, creating a serene park-like atmosphere.
Credit: Toll Brothers
The Cannery
In 2022, Embrey, a developer based in San Antonio, unveiled The Cannery at The Packing District. This development offers a variety of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, complemented by a rooftop amenity deck, a resort-style pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center spanning 3,000 square feet.
Credit: The Packing District
Citron
Also in 2022, Embrey expanded its footprint within The Packing District by acquiring a 4-acre site at the southwest corner of Princeton Avenue and Orange Blossom Trail. Citron at The Packing District marks Embrey's second residential venture in this blooming mixed-use community.
Credit: Embry
Local Businesses
Within the Packing District, guests can already find a mix of markets, tasty eateries, and fun experiences, all drawing folks in to soak up the lively vibe of the neighborhood, including:
YMCA: Leonard & Marjorie Family Center
A cornerstone of the district's commitment to health and wellness, the YMCA provides a range of fitness programs, recreational activities, and community events, fostering a sense of well-being for residents and visitors alike.
Credit: Leonard & Marjorie Williams Family YMCA
PUBLIX
A new Publix has arrived to the area, sitting in the same location as the historic packing house. An iconic destination within the district, The Packing House embodied the area's rich history and entrepreneurial spirit. Here, visitors can explore a curated selection of artisanal goods, culinary delights, and cultural experiences, celebrating the essence of the Packing District. This is also right next to where the replica of Dr. Phillips' juice stand sits - in the Groves at College Park plaza.
The Juice Stand
The Packing District recently celebrated the grand opening of the replica of Dr. Phillips' iconic juice stand. Now officially open for business, The Juice Stand welcomes visitors into their retro establishment, featuring beloved vendors such as Foxtail Coffee, Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream, and Ravenous Pig Brewing Company. From expertly crafted coffee creations to nourishing juices and smoothies, these establishments elevate the culinary landscape of the Packing District.
Credit: Foxtail Coffee and Kelly's Ice Cream
Great Southern Box Company Food Hall
Now open in The Packing District: The Great Southern Box Company Food Hall! Housed in a historic citrus warehouse, this eagerly anticipated project by dap design will boast 11 vendor stalls, 2 outdoor patios, and a microbrewery by Orange County Brewers. Patrons can expect a culinary journey featuring authentic Cuban street food from A Lo Cubano Kitchen, high-quality poke bowls from Poke Fin, and health-conscious twists on Jamaican classics from Kayos Jamaican Grill.
Credit: Great Southern Box Company
Recreation
The Grove Park
The Grove Park, Orlando's expansive 66-acre green space and recreational haven, is now open to the public! Situated next to Princeton Street and John Young Parkway, this meticulously crafted urban oasis features 1.5 miles of meticulously maintained trails suitable for biking, jogging, and leisurely walks. Set against the backdrop of a serene lake, complemented by an inviting outdoor pavilion, The Grove Park pays homage to the region's rich citrus-packing heritage while fostering connectivity between neighboring communities such as Rosemont, College Park, Mercy Drive, and Spring Lake.
Credit: The Packing District
Orlando Tennis Center
Adjacent to The Grove Park stands the newly inaugurated Orlando Tennis Center, boasting 17 meticulously maintained, lighted courts, with four courts convertible for pickleball enthusiasts. The state-of-the-art 4,000-square-foot clubhouse offers a comprehensive suite of amenities including lockers, showers, versatile meeting spaces, and a well-appointed pro shop, catering to the diverse needs of tennis aficionados.
Credit: City of Orlando
Upcoming Projects
If you’re curious about the future of the burgeoning district, here's a glimpse of some of the most promising projects to anticipate:
The Packing District Trail System
The Packing District is set to transform with a comprehensive network of trails and routes, seamlessly connecting activity hubs and parks. Already underway, enhancements include widened cycle tracks along Princeton Street and planned alignments along Orange Blossom Trail. Future developments will link townhomes, parks, and recreational facilities, with extensions like the Pine Hills Trail expansion and a proposed bicycle boulevard, ensuring easy access to Orlando's thrilling urban landscape.
Overall
As the Packing District continues to evolve into a dynamic urban destination, the intersection of history, innovation, and community engagement remains at its core. With a diverse array of residential, commercial, and recreational developments already underway, and a host of exciting projects on the horizon, the district stands poised to solidify its status as a vibrant hub within Orlando. From its rich heritage to its forward-thinking initiatives, the Packing District embodies the spirit of progress, promising a bright and bustling future for residents and visitors alike.
The Orlando Real is sponsored by The Pozek Group. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in Orlando, reach out and we would love to help!
Search for Homes For Sale Near the Packing District
Leave A Comment